Now all the gallery is complete I think in the next round I will definitely use the starch technique as I know I can be more accurate. I was also wondering how everyone tackles their seams, if you have a large pieced item, how do you all keep the bulk down? This I found hardest to manage on kbrison's blocks as I suppose I don't usually do such a large pieced item and it got harder and harder to press.

I think I am going to add another row of 6 squares to make it a bit wider...but I am debating whether to just sew it together as is or look for a yellow, blue, and white fabric to frame all the squares in. It will be a lap quilt, but I like those on the bigger side.

I don't really have any tips on reducing bulk other than trimming as you go and trying to alternate the way pressed seams lie (so they aren't all bunched up on one side). And I made one of the pinwheel blocks on mine (which is kind of like fabric origami so several layers) and a sharp needle really helps.

Alternating the direction seams are pressed helps sometimes, but other times pressing seams open works better. I haven't made any of my own blocks yet, but ran into pressing issues with two of the blocks I chose for Homer. Finally decided to press certain seams open and that took care of most of the problem. Normally I press towards the darker fabric so seams are less noticeable, but I also try to press away from the center of a block and towards the outer edges.

I hereby pledge to choose a much less complicated block for the next go round! (The pattern was rated as an intermediate design. Just goes to show that you can't always rely on those rating systems. Sorry, partners!)

I hereby pledge to choose a much less complicated block for the next go round! (The pattern was rated as an intermediate design. Just goes to show that you can't always rely on those rating systems. Sorry, partners!)

I hereby pledge to choose a much less complicated block for the next go round! (The pattern was rated as an intermediate design. Just goes to show that you can't always rely on those rating systems. Sorry, partners!)

kbrison I wasn't in your group, but I have the block you picked marked to try at a later date because I liked the way it looked. as to the bulk issue I have tried all the different ways suggested and they all work depending on the block you are working on, so it is up to the person working on the block and just playing around till it feels right.

I have finished all the blocks for the shoo fly quilt and am now working on the rolls, will post once they are done.